TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) is the PHL government agency for technical-vocational education + training. Issues National Certificates (NC I, NC II, NC III, NC IV) for skill-based qualifications.
Common TESDA certifications:
- Cookery NC II (food service)
- Caregiving NC II (caregiver work, OFW pathway)
- Welding NC II (construction, OFW)
- Beauty Care NC II (salon services)
- ICT (computer hardware, programming basics)
- Driving NC II (professional drivers)
What it means for you:
- Faster pathway to workforce than 4-year degree
- Significant for OFW deployment (Middle East caregivers, cooks, etc.)
- TVL track in SHS produces TESDA-certified graduates
- Many TESDA NCs cost ₱5,000-₱30,000 (much cheaper than college)
- Can supplement degree with NC for additional skill credentialing